New measures to strengthen search and rescue response to incidents involving people with Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) will come into force from 15th April.
An update by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) will require registration of all current and new PLBs – online and at no cost – that are carried on board a UK-flagged vessel, hovercraft or mechanically propelled watercraft, such as jet skis.
When PLBs are discarded or change ownership, the new details must also be provided.
The change brings PLBs under regulations that have applied for 26 years to Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs).
When a registered PLB or EPIRB is activated, HM Coastguard can use the details supplied, such as emergency contacts, to gain crucial information to support rescue efforts and send the best resources to help.
False alarms can be traced more efficiently too, keeping rescue teams on readiness for real emergencies and avoiding unnecessary missions into potentially dangerous conditions.
The registration requirement does not apply to PLBs on unpowered craft such as paddleboards, kayaks and canoes – although the MCA encourages all PLBs to be registered.
Linda Goulding, UK Distress & Security Beacon Registry Manager, has said:
“The benefit of registering your PLB is simple: it gives you – and everyone you’re with – a headstart to being rescued from an emergency.
“The registration process is free, takes just 15 minutes, and could make the difference between life or death. You can do it at no cost online in time for the deadline of 15 April.
“HM Coastguard will react to every beacon alert we receive. Registering your PLB helps us quickly work out when it’s a false alarm with no one in danger, or to focus our resources when people are in real distress and need our help. Help us to help you.”
To register a PLB or EPIRB with the UK Beacon Registry, visit https://www.gov.uk/register-406-beacons, call 020 3817 2006 or email [email protected].
Let’s hope people participate, it’s amazing how many
people don’t respect rules.